Columbia College Adds Freshman Softball Duo

COLUMBIA -- Columbia College head softball coach Wendy Spratt officially announced the signing of Lauren McCroskie and Kelsi Hill to join the Cougars beginning next season in the 2013-14 school year.

McCroskie, a Kansas City, Kansas native, will graduate from Staley High School in May after an award winning career on the diamond. A three time all-district and all-conference player, Lauren has received awards for her success as a pitcher, outfielder and infielder all while leading her squad to the district championship her freshmen year and conference championship her senior year. Lauren was also a track and field award winner, earning conference championship status in Discus and being a three-time district and sectional finalist.

In the classroom McCroskie was a Quill and Scroll Honor Society, National Honor Society and student council representative.

"We are extremely excited that Lauren has chosen to be a Cougar for the 2013-14 season," said Wendy Spratt. "She excels in the classroom and on the field. Lauren is a pitcher who will make an immediate impact on the mound and help the team achieve their goals."

A Grain Valley, Missouri native, Kelsi Hill is also finishing up her senior year in high school at Grain Valley High. The second baseman earned all-conference, all-district and all-area accolades during her high school career while posting a .410 career batting average. Hill helped her team to an amazing year in 2012, making it all the way to the state championship game after winning conference, districts and sectionals.

Aside from softball, Kelsi also participated in basketball and guided her team to back-to-back district titles in 2010 and 2011. A National Honor Society member, she also earned academic all-conference nods.

"Kelsi is an extremely hard worker who is a student of the game," stated Spratt. "She has played on many successful teams and has what it takes to win at the next level."